Arthropod-Borne Flaviviruses in Pregnancy

Area of Science:

• Medical Entomology
• Virology
• Public Health

Background:

• Flaviviruses are significant RNA viruses affecting pregnant women and neonates.
• Key arthropod-borne flaviviruses include Zika, Dengue, Japanese encephalitis, West Nile, and Yellow fever viruses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnosis, and prevention of flaviviruses in pregnancy and neonates.
• To highlight diagnostic challenges and the need for novel vaccines.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on arthropod-borne flaviviruses.
• Analysis of disease impact, diagnostic complexities, and prevention strategies.

Main Results:

• Flavivirus infections can cause severe maternal illness, congenital malformations, and postnatal complications.
• Diagnostic specificity is challenged by serological cross-reactivity among flaviviruses.
• Vaccine development is critical for preventing neuroinvasive disease and congenital infections.

Conclusions:

• Accurate diagnosis requires thorough clinical history and consideration of geographic exposures and vaccinations.
• Vaccine safety in pregnant women and children is paramount.
• Climate change and 'One Health' approaches are vital for future flavivirus epidemic preparedness.